Dr Rodchenkov was the director of Russia's national anti-doping laboratory, but fled to the United States after revealing his home country had been conducting a massive, national doping program over a number of years.

“For the longest time I heard nothing from the coordinator. I now understand that FIFA’s made contact. It’s still a little unclear to me when. But I also now understand that they’ve submitted a series of questions for Dr Rodchenkov. I further understand that they’re in the process of retaining or trying to retain [an] independent investigator to follow the facts.”

WADA are also expected to question Professor Richard McLaren, who compiled a 2016 report on doping in Russia, which said as many as 1000 athletes – including 33 footballers – had been part of an elaborate doping program.

As to whether Dr Rodchenkov’s testimony would affect the World Cup, Walden was keeping his powder dry.

“While I can confirm what McLaren has already reported – which is that the Russian footballers were protected by the state doping system – the details I’m going to withhold until we have the opportunity to speak to the investigator directly,” Walden said.

“Hopefully now there will be a process in place relatively soon to not only find out what Dr Rodchenkov knows, but to hear other evidence, which I believe will show doping by a number of Russian footballers.”

At this stage, Russia will play the opening match of the World Cup on June 15, in a match against Saudi Arabia – bookmakers Neds have the home side as $1.33 favourites, with the Saudis paying $11.00.

As for taking out the most prestigious prize in world football, Neds have the Russians paying $34.00. At this stage, Neds have Germany as $5.00 favourites to go back-to-back, ahead of Brazil at $6.00.

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